A CRASH involving three cars is causing tailbacks on the A13.

The accident, which took place shortly before 2pm, happened between the Stanford-le-Hope turn off and the Basildon Five Bells interchange heading westbound.

The road is blocked, with traffic currently stationary and beginning to back up beyond the Five Bells junction.

At 3.30pm, it was reported the accident had been cleared and that traffic in the area was easing.